Exercise apparatus comprising adjustable foot pads and related methods

ABSTRACT

An exercise apparatus may comprise a frame, and first and second foot support members each comprising a central region mechanically constrained to follow an ovoid path. The exercise apparatus may further comprise first and second foot pads coupled to the respective first and second foot support members, and configured for selective rotation relative to the first and second foot support members. The exercise apparatus may further comprise first and second locking mechanisms positioned and configured to selectively lock the respective first and second foot pads in a first angular position and at least one second angular position relative to the respective first and second foot support members.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent application 61/786,039 filed on Mar. 14, 2013.

TECHNICAL FIELD

In general, the present disclosure relates to exercise devices. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to exercise devices having adjustable foot pads configured to provide ovoid motion and to be adjustable, allowing exercising in a standing position and various seated positions.

BACKGROUND

Exercise equipment that provides elliptical movement, commonly called “ellipticals,” have become very popular. Ellipticals allow a user to simulate a walking or running motion for exercise with less impact to the user's body and joints when compared to exercising on a treadmill. Additionally, ellipticals may be less intimidating to users than other equipment, such as treadmills, as the speed of the exercising movement is controlled by the user, rather than an electric motor.

Stationary recumbent bicycles are also popular exercise equipment for people who desire a low impact aerobic workout. Accordingly, a person who prefers exercising on an elliptical, when compared to a treadmill, may also desire to exercise on a stationary recumbent bicycle. However, a user desiring to exercise on both an elliptical and a stationary recumbent bicycle may be unable to justify the expense of purchasing separate exercise machines. Additionally, a user may not have sufficient floor space for two separate machines.

One type of seated elliptical exercise machine is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,951,048 issued to Bob Hsiung and assigned to Hupa International, Inc. In this patent, an elliptical exercise machine includes a combination elliptical trainer and abdominal swiveling exercise machine, and an exercise bicycle.

SUMMARY

In one aspect of the present disclosure, an exercise apparatus may comprise a frame, a first foot support member comprising a central region mechanically constrained to follow an ovoid path relative to the frame, and a second foot support member comprising a central region mechanically constrained to follow an ovoid path relative to the frame.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include a first foot pad coupled to the first foot support member, and a second foot pad coupled to the second foot support member.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include the first foot pad configured for selective rotation relative to the first foot support member, and the second foot pad configured for selective rotation relative to the second foot support member.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include a first locking mechanism positioned and configured to selectively lock the first foot pad in a first angular position relative to the first foot support member, and a second locking mechanism positioned and configured to selectively lock the second foot pad in a first angular position relative to the second foot support member.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include the first locking mechanism additionally configured to selectively lock the first foot pad in at least one second angular position relative to the first foot support member, and the second locking mechanism may be additionally configured to selectively lock the second foot pad in at least one second angular position relative to the second foot support member.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include the exercise apparatus being a multi-position exercise machine

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include the exercise apparatus being a combination recumbent elliptical exercise machine and a standing elliptical exercise machine.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include a seat coupled to the frame.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include a drive assembly positioned within the frame, beneath the seat.

In an additional aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect, a first end of the first foot support member may be coupled to a first crank arm of the drive assembly and a first end of the second foot support member may be coupled to a second crank arm of the drive assembly.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include a first swing arm coupled to a first side of an upper portion of the frame by a hinge joint, and a second swing arm coupled to a second side of the upper portion of the frame by a hinge joint.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include a first end of the first swing arm having a handle and a second end of the first swing arm may be joined to a second end of the first foot support member by a hinge joint, and a first end of the second swing arm may comprise a handle and a second end of the second swing arm may be joined to a second end of the second foot support member by a hinge joint.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include a console positioned on an upper portion of the frame in a location where the console is observable by an operator while standing on the first and second foot pads and is also observable by an operator while seated on the seat.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include a hinge joint coupling the first foot pad to the first foot support member and a hinge joint coupling the second foot pad to the second foot support member.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include the first locking mechanism comprising a first locking arm and the second locking mechanism may comprise a second locking arm.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include the first locking arm coupled to the first foot pad via a hinge joint, and the second locking arm may be coupled to the second foot pad via a hinge joint.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include the first locking arm coupled to the first foot support member via a hinge joint, and the second locking arm may be coupled to the second foot support member via a hinge joint.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include the first locking mechanism further comprising a first positioning rack and the second locking mechanism may further comprise a second positioning rack.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include each of the first and second positioning racks comprising a plurality of recesses.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include each recess of the plurality of recesses of the first positioning rack being configured for selective alignment with a pin of the first locking arm, and each recess of the plurality of recesses of the second positioning rack may be configured for selective alignment with a pin of the second locking arm.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include each of the first and second positioning racks comprising a plurality of apertures.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include each aperture of the plurality of apertures of the first positioning rack configured for selective alignment with an aperture of the first locking arm, and each aperture of the plurality of apertures of the second positioning rack configured for selective alignment with an aperture of the second locking arm.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include the first positioning rack comprising a track, and the second positioning rack may comprise a track.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include the first locking arm comprising a trolley slidably coupled to the track of the first positioning rack, and the second locking arm comprising a trolley slidably coupled to the track of the second positioning rack.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include the first locking arm coupled to the first foot pad and comprising a plurality of apertures, and the second locking arm coupled to the second foot pad and comprising a plurality of apertures.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include each aperture of the plurality of apertures of the first locking arm positioned and configured for selective alignment with an aperture of the first foot support member, and each aperture of the plurality of apertures of the second locking arm positioned and configured for selective alignment with an aperture of the second foot support member.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include the first locking arm coupled to the first foot pad by a hinge joint and comprising a plurality of recesses, and the second locking arm coupled to the second foot pad by a hinge joint and comprising a plurality of recesses.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include each recess of the plurality of recesses of the first locking arm positioned and configured for selective alignment with a pin of the first foot support member, and each recess of the plurality of recesses of the second locking arm positioned and configured for selective alignment with a pin of the second foot support member.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, a method of exercising may comprise, positioning a first foot on a first foot pad of an exercise machine, positioning a second foot on a second foot pad of the exercise machine, and moving each of the first foot and the second foot along an ovoid path on the first and second foot pads while standing.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include rotating each of the first and second foot pads relative to respective first and second foot support members from a first position to a second position.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include sitting on a seat of the exercise machine.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include moving each of the first foot and the second foot along the ovoid path on the first and second foot pads in the second position and while seated on the seat.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include observing a console of the exercise machine while moving each of the first foot and the second foot along the ovoid path on the first and second foot pads while standing.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include observing the console of the exercise machine while moving each of the first foot and the second foot along the ovoid path on the first and second foot pads in the second position and while seated on the seat.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include positioning a first hand on a handle of a first swing arm of the exercise machine, and positioning a second hand on a handle of a second swing arm of the exercise machine.

In one or more other aspects that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, may further include comprise moving the first and second hands along an arcuate path on the handles of the first and second swing arms while moving each of the first foot and the second foot along the ovoid path on the first and second foot pads while standing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of the present method and system and are a part of the specification. The illustrated embodiments are merely examples of the present system and method and do not limit the scope thereof.

FIG. 1 is a side view of a person exercising in a standing position on an exercise apparatus and wherein crank arms of a drive assembly are in a vertical position, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the person exercising in the standing position on the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1, wherein the crank arms of the drive assembly are in a horizontal position.

FIG. 3 is a side view of the person exercising in a seated position on the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1, wherein the crank arms of the drive assembly are in a vertical position.

FIG. 4 is a side view of the person exercising in the seated position on the exercise apparatus of FIG. 1, wherein the crank arms of the drive assembly are in a horizontal position.

FIG. 5A is a side view of a locking mechanism for an exercise apparatus such as shown in FIG. 1, the locking mechanism comprising a locking arm coupled to a foot support member and a positioning rack positioned on a foot pad.

FIG. 5B is a side view of a locking mechanism for an exercise apparatus such as shown in FIG. 1, the locking mechanism comprising a locking arm coupled to a foot pad and a positioning rack comprising a plurality of apertures positioned on a foot support member.

FIG. 5C is a side view of a locking mechanism for an exercise apparatus such as shown in FIG. 1, the locking mechanism comprising a locking arm coupled to a foot pad and a positioning rack comprising a track positioned on a foot support member.

FIG. 5D is a side view of a locking mechanism for an exercise apparatus such as shown in FIG. 1, the locking mechanism comprising a locking arm coupled to a foot pad and comprising a plurality of apertures.

FIG. 5E is a side view of a locking mechanism for an exercise apparatus such as shown in FIG. 1, the locking mechanism comprising a locking arm coupled to a foot pad and comprising a plurality of recesses.

Throughout the drawings, identical reference numbers designate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1-4, an exercise machine 10 may comprise a frame 12, a seat 14, a drive assembly 16, foot support members 18 and 20 and swing arms 22 and 24. The drive assembly 16 may be mounted within a rear portion of the frame 12, and the seat 14 may be supported by the frame 12, above the drive assembly 16. The drive assembly 16 may include a first crank arm 26 located on a first side of the drive assembly 16, and a second crank arm 28 located on an opposing, second side of the drive assembly 16. The first and second crank arms 26 and 28 may be coupled to a central rotating member 30, and the drive assembly 16 may provide selectable resistance to the rotation of the central rotating member 30 by the first and second crank arms 26 and 28.

A console 32 may be positioned at an upper end of the frame 12, and the first swing arm 22 may be rotatably coupled to a first side of an upper portion of the frame 12 by a first hinge joint 36 located below the console 32. An upper end of the first swing arm 22 may extend above the first hinge joint 36 and may comprise a first handle 34 extending above the console 32. A lower end of the first swing arm 22 may extend below the first hinge joint 36 and may be rotatably attached to a front end of the first foot support member 18 via a hinge joint 38.

In a similar manner, the second swing arm 24 may be rotatably coupled to a second side of the upper portion of the frame 12 by a second hinge joint. An upper end of the second swing arm may extend above the second hinge joint and may comprise a second handle 40. A lower end of the second swing arm may extend below the second hinge joint and may be rotatably attached to a front end of the second foot support member 20 via a hinge joint 42.

A back end of the first foot support member 18 may be rotatably coupled to the first crank arm 26 by a hinge joint 44. Accordingly, the hinge joint 44 at the back end of the first foot support member 18 may be constrained to movement along a circular path 46 defined by the rotation of the first crank arm 26 about the central rotating member 30 of the drive assembly 16. Meanwhile, the hinge joint 38 at the front end of the first foot support member 18 may be constrained to a movement along a path 48 shaped as a circular arc segment, the radius of the circular arc segment defined by the distance from the first hinge joint 36 coupling the first swing arm 22 to the frame 12 and the hinge joint 38 joining the first swing arm 22 to the first foot support member 18.

In a similar manner, a back end of the second foot support member 20 may be rotatably coupled to the second crank arm 28 by a hinge joint 50. Accordingly, the hinge joint 50 at the back end of the second foot support member 20 may be constrained to movement along a circular path 46, and the hinge joint 42 at the front end of the first foot support member 20 may be constrained to a movement along a path 48 shaped as a circular arc segment.

A first foot pad 52 may be rotatably coupled to a middle portion of the first foot support member 18 via a first hinge joint 54, and a second foot pad 56 may be rotatably coupled to a middle portion of the second foot support member 20 via a second hinge joint 58. As the front ends of the first and second foot support members 18 and 20 are constrained to movement along and arcuate path 48, and the back ends of the first and second foot support members 18 and 20 are constrained to movement along a circular path 46, the middle portion of each foot support member 18 and 20 may be constrained to movement along an ovoid path (e.g., a path that is non-circular, having the shape of an egg, an oval or an ellipse). Accordingly, each of the first and second hinge joints 54 and 58 connecting the first and second foot pads 52 and 56 to the respective first and second foot support members 18 and 20 may be constrained to movement along an ovoid path.

Each foot pad may additionally include a locking mechanism 60 that may facilitate the selective locking of the foot pad 52, 56 in a first position relative to the foot support member 18, 20, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and at least one second position relative to the foot support member 18, 20, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1-4, each locking mechanism 60 may comprise a locking arm 62 having a first end rotatably coupled to each respective foot pad 52, 56 (see FIGS. 3 and 4).

When positioned and locked in the first position, a base 64 of each foot pad 52, 56 may be substantially parallel with a longitudinal axis of each respective foot support member 18, 20 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). Locking each foot pad 52, 56 in the first position relative to each respective foot support member 18, 20 may facilitate the operation of the exercise machine 10 by a user while in a standing position, with the user's hands positioned on the respective first and second handles 34 and 40 of the first and second swing arms 22 and 24. Accordingly, the exercise machine 10 may be operated similarly to an elliptical machine, simulating a walking or jogging motion, when the first and second foot pads 52 and 56 are locked in the first position relative to the first and second foot support members 18 and 20, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

When positioned and locked in a second position, the base 64 of each of the first foot pad 52 and the second foot pad 56 may be positioned at an angle relative to a longitudinal axis of each respective foot support member 18, 20. For example, the base 64 of each foot pad 52, 56 may be positioned at an angle between about 20 degrees and about 70 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of each respective foot support member 18, 20. For another example, the base 64 of each foot pad 52, 56 may be positioned at an angle between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of each respective foot support member 18, 20.

Locking each foot pad 52, 56 in the second position relative to the each respective foot support member 18, 20 may facilitate the operation of the exercise machine by a user while in a seated position, with the user's buttocks positioned on the seat 14, and optionally with the user's back positioned on a backrest 66 of the seat 14 and hands positioned on handles 68 associated with the seat 14. Accordingly, the exercise machine 10 may be operated similar to a stationary recumbent bicycle when the first and second foot pads 52 and 56 are locked in the second position relative to the first and second foot support members 18 and 20, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.

To facilitate various sizes of users, the seat 14 may be slidably mounted to the frame 12, so that the distance between the seat 14 and the first and second foot pads 52 and 56 may be adjustable. Also, the angle of the seat back 66 and/or seat pan may be rotatable relative to the frame 12. Additionally, the console 32 may be mounted in a position that facilitates observation of the console 32 by a user when standing on the foot pads 52 and 56, and that also facilitates observation of the console 32 by a user when seated on the seat 14.

The first and second foot pads 52 and 56 may also be lockable in more than one second position relative to the first and second foot support members 18 and 20, so that the bases 64 of the first and second foot pads 52 and 56 may be positioned at an angle that is comfortable for a specific user when seated in the seat 14.

As shown in FIGS. 3-4, the locking mechanisms 60, for locking the positions of the first and second foot pads 52 and 56, may each include a locking arm 62 and a positioning rack 70. A first end of each locking arm 62 may be rotatably coupled to a respective foot pad 52, 56 by a hinge joint 72. A second end of each locking arm 62 may include a pin 74.

The positioning rack 70 may include a plurality of recesses 76 spaced along a length of the respective foot support member 18, 20. Each recess 76 may be sized and configured to receive the pin 74 at the second end of the locking arm 62 and maintain the position of the pin 74 when a downward, compressive force is applied to the locking arm 62, such as a force applied to the foot pad 52, 56 by a person's foot when exercising on the exercise machine 10. Each recess 76 may additionally be configured to release the pin 74 of the locking arm 62 when an upward, tensile force is applied to the locking arm 62, such as a force lifting the foot pad 52, 56 to adjust the position of the foot pad 52, 56.

Accordingly, each foot pad 52, 56 may be positioned in the first position to facilitate exercising in a standing, erect position, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. Each foot pad 52, 56 may then be lifted by an operator and each locking arm 62 may swing freely below each respective foot pad 52, 56. The pin 74 at the second end of each locking arm 62 may then be positioned within a recess 76 of the positioning rack 70 to achieve a desired angle between the base 64 of the foot pad 52, 56 and the foot support member 18, 20. After the pin 74 at the second end of each locking arm 62 is positioned within a respective recess 76 of the positioning racks 70, the exercise machine 10 may be configured to facilitate exercising in a sitting, recumbent position, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.

In further embodiments, a locking mechanism 80 may include a locking arm 82 that is rotatably attached to a respective foot support member 18, 20 and each foot pad 52, 56 may include a positioning rack 84, as shown in FIG. 5A. A first end of each locking arm 82 may be rotatably coupled to a foot pad 52, 56 by a hinge joint 86, and a second end of each locking arm may optionally include a pin (not shown).

The positioning rack 84 may include a plurality of recesses 88 spaced along a length of the foot pad 52, 56. Each recess 88 may be sized and configured to receive the second end of the locking arm 82 and maintain the position of the locking arm 82 when a downward, compressive force is applied to the locking arm 82, such as a force applied to the foot pad 52, 56 by a person's foot when exercising on the exercise machine 10. Each recess 88 may additionally be configured to release the second end of the locking arm 82 when an upward, tensile force is applied to the locking arm 82, such as a force lifting the foot pad 52, 56 to adjust the position of the foot pad 52, 56.

In additional embodiments, a locking mechanism 90 may include a positioning rack 92 that includes a plurality of apertures 94, as shown in FIG. 5B. A first end of each locking arm 96 may be rotatably coupled to a foot pad by a hinge joint 98, and a second end of each locking arm may include a pin 100, which may be removable from an aperture located at the second end of the locking arm 96.

As shown, the positioning rack 92 may include a plurality of apertures 94 spaced along a length of the foot support member 18, 20. Each aperture 94 may be sized and configured similar to the aperture at the second end of the locking arm 96. The aperture of the locking arm 96 may be aligned with an aperture 94 of the plurality of the apertures 94 of the positioning rack 92 and the pin 100 may be inserted through both the aperture of the locking arm 96 and the aperture 94 of the plurality of apertures 94 of the positioning rack 92.

When the pin 100 is inserted, the second end of the locking arm 96 may be fixed relative to the positioning rack 92 and may maintain the position of the locking arm 96 and the foot pad 52, 56 relative to the foot support member 18, 20. Accordingly, when a force is applied to the locking arm 96, such as a force applied to the foot pad 52, 56 by a person's foot when exercising on the exercise machine 10, the angle of the foot pad 52, 56 relative to the foot support member 18, 20 may be maintained. When the pin 100 is removed from the aperture 94 of the plurality of apertures 94 of the positioning rack 92, and optionally removed from the aperture of the locking arm 96, the locking arm 96 and foot pad 52, 56 may be free to move relative to the foot support member 18, 20 and the angle of the foot pad 52, 56 relative to the foot support member 18, 20 may be modified.

In additional embodiments, a locking mechanism 102 may include a positioning rack 104 that includes an elongated track 106 or rail, as shown in FIG. 5C. A first end of each locking arm 108 may be rotatably coupled to a foot pad by a hinge joint 110, and a second end of each locking arm may include a trolley 112, which may be slidably coupled to the track 106 of the positioning rack 104. The trolley 112 may be selectably lockable, such that the trolley 112 and second end of the locking arm 108 may be selectively fixed relative to the track 106 and the foot support member 18, 20.

For example, the elongated track 106 may comprise an elongated opening and the trolley 112 may comprise a shoulder bolt and nut, such as a wing nut. A shoulder of the shoulder bolt may be sized and positioned to move freely within the elongated opening when the wing nut on the shoulder bolt is relatively loose. When the wing nut is turned and tightened, the wing nut may be compressed against the positioning rack 104 and may lock the shoulder bolt in place relative to the positioning rack 104.

Accordingly, when the trolley 112 is locked, the second end of the locking arm 108 may be fixed relative to the positioning rack 104 and may maintain the position of the locking arm 108 and the foot pad 52, 56 relative to the foot support member 18, 20. When a force is applied to the locking arm 108, such as a force applied to the foot pad 52, 56 by a person's foot when exercising on the exercise machine 10, the angle of the foot pad 52, 56 relative to the foot support member 18, 20 may be maintained. When the trolley 112 is unlocked, the trolley 112 may be slidable along the track 106 and the angle of the foot pad 52, 56 relative to the foot support member 18, 20 may be modified.

In yet further embodiments, a locking mechanism 114 may include a locking arm 116 with a plurality of apertures 118, as shown in FIG. 5D. A first end of the locking arm 116 may be fixed to a foot pad 52, 56, and the plurality of apertures 118 may extend along a length of the locking arm 116. The foot support member 18, 20 may include an aperture that may be selectively aligned with each aperture 118 of the plurality of apertures 118 of the locking arm 116.

To lock the angular position of the foot pad 52, 56 relative to the foot support member 18, 20, an aperture 118 of the plurality of apertures 118 of the locking arm 116 may be aligned with the aperture of the foot support member 18, 20 and a pin 120 may be inserted through both the aperture 118 of the locking arm 116 and the aperture of the foot support member 18, 20. When the pin 120 is inserted, the locking arm 116, and the foot pad 52, 56, may be fixed relative to the foot support member 18, 20. Accordingly, when a force is applied to the locking arm 116, such as a force applied to the foot pad 52, 56 by a person's foot when exercising on the exercise machine 10, the angle of the foot pad 52, 56 relative to the foot support member 18, 20 may be maintained. When the pin 120 is removed from the aperture 118 of the plurality of apertures 118 of the locking arm 116 and the aperture of the foot support member 18, 20, the locking arm 116 and foot pad 52, 56 may be free to move relative to the foot support member 18, 20 and the angle of the foot pad 52, 56 relative to the foot support member 18, 20 may be modified.

In yet additional embodiments, a locking mechanism 122 may include a locking arm 124 with a plurality of recesses 126, as shown in FIG. 5E. A first end of each locking arm 124 may be rotatably coupled to a foot pad 52, 56 by a hinge joint 128, and the plurality of recesses 126 may extend along a length of the locking arm 124. The foot support member 18, 20 may include a pin 130 that may be selectively aligned with each recess 126 of the plurality of recesses 126 of the locking arm 124.

To lock the angular position of the foot pad 52, 56 relative to the foot support member 18, 20, a recess 126 of the plurality of recesses 126 of the locking arm 124 may be aligned with the pin 130 of the foot support member 18, 20. When the pin 130 is inserted, the locking arm 124, and the foot pad 52, 56, may be fixed relative to the foot support member 18, 20. Accordingly, when a downward, compression force is applied to the locking arm 124, such as a force applied to the foot pad 52, 56 by a person's foot when exercising on the exercise machine 10, the angle of the foot pad 52, 56 relative to the foot support member 18, 20 may be maintained. Each recess 126 may additionally be configured to release the pin 130 of the foot support member 18, 20 when an upward, tensile force is applied to the locking arm 124, such as a force lifting the foot pad 52, 56 to adjust the angular position of the foot pad 52, 56.

In view of the foregoing, an operator may operate the exercise machine 10 in a either a standing position, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, or a seated position, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 4. Consequently, the resulting exercise machine 10 is a multi-position exercise machine, or one that allows the user to exercise from more than one physical position. To exercise in a standing position, an operator may position a first foot on the first foot pad 52 of the exercise machine 10, and position a second foot on the second foot pad 56 of the exercise machine 10, when the first and second foot pads 52 and 56 are locked in the first position. The operator may then move each of the first foot and the second foot along an ovoid path on the first and second foot pads 52 and 56 while standing and observing the console 32. Additionally, the operator may position a first hand on the first handle 34 of the first swing arm 22, and position a second hand on the second handle 40 of the second swing arm 24 of the exercise machine 10. The operator may then move the first and second hands along an arcuate path on the handles 34 and 40 of the first and second swing arms 22 and 24 while moving each of the first foot and the second foot along the ovoid path on the first and second foot pads 52 and 56 while standing.

The operator may then modify the exercise machine 10 to exercise while seated, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. The operator may rotate each of the first and second foot pads 52, 56 from the first position to a second position. The operator may then utilize the locking mechanisms 60, 80, 90, 102, 114, 122 to lock the first and second foot pads 52, 56 in the second position. The operator may then sit on the seat 14 and again may position the first foot on the first foot pad 52 of the exercise machine 10, and position the second foot on the second foot pad 56 of the exercise machine 10. The operator may then move each of the first foot and the second foot along the ovoid path on the first and second foot pads 52 and 56 in the second position and while seated on the seat 14 and may simultaneously observe the console 32.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

Stationary recumbent bicycles and so called “ellipticals” (i.e., exercise equipment that provides elliptical movement) have become very popular for people who desire a low impact aerobic workout. Ellipticals and stationary bicycles allow a user to exercise with less impact to the user's body and joints when compared to exercising on a treadmill.

Ellipticals and stationary recumbent bicycles may be less intimidating to users than other equipment, such as treadmills, as the speed of the exercising movement is controlled by the user, rather than an electric motor. Accordingly, there may be less risk of injury when exercising on an elliptical or stationary recumbent bicycle, when compared to exercising on a treadmill.

However, a user desiring to exercise on both an elliptical and a stationary recumbent bicycle may be unable to justify the expense of purchasing separate exercise machines. Additionally, a user may not have sufficient floor space for two separate machines. In view of the foregoing, it would be desirable to have improved exercise equipment and related methods to address the shortcomings in the art.

In some embodiments, an exercise machine may comprise a frame, a seat, a drive assembly, foot support members and swing arms. A console may be positioned at an upper end of the frame. An upper end of the first swing arm may extend above the first hinge joint and may comprise a first handle extending above the console. A lower end of the first swing arm may extend below the first hinge joint and may be rotatably attached to a front end of the first foot support member via a hinge joint.

In a similar manner, the second swing arm may be rotatably coupled to a second side of the upper portion of the frame by a second hinge joint. An upper end of the second swing arm may extend above the second hinge joint and may comprise a second handle. A lower end of the second swing arm may extend below the second hinge joint and may be rotatably attached to a front end of the second foot support member via a hinge joint.

A first foot pad may be rotatably coupled to a middle portion of the first foot support member via a first hinge joint, and a second foot pad may be rotatably coupled to a middle portion of the second foot support member via a second hinge joint. As the front ends of the first and second foot support members are constrained to movement along and arcuate path, and the back ends of the first and second foot support members are constrained to movement along a circular path, the middle portion of each foot support member may be constrained to movement along an ovoid path (e.g., a path that is non-circular, having the shape of an egg, an oval or an ellipse). Accordingly, each of the first and second hinge joints connecting the first and second foot pads to the respective first and second foot support members may be constrained to movement along an ovoid path.

Each foot pad may additionally include a locking mechanism that may facilitate the selective locking of the foot pad in a first position relative to the foot support member, and at least one second position relative to the foot support member. In some embodiments, each locking mechanism may comprise a locking arm having a first end rotatably coupled to each respective foot pad.

The locking mechanisms, for locking the positions of the first and second foot pads, may each include a locking arm and a positioning rack. A first end of each locking arm may be rotatably coupled to a respective foot pad by a hinge joint. A second end of each locking arm may include a pin.

The positioning rack may include a plurality of recesses spaced along a length of the respective foot support member. Each recess may be sized and configured to receive the pin at the second end of the locking arm and maintain the position of the pin when a downward, compressive force is applied to the locking arm, such as a force applied to the foot pad by a person's foot when exercising on the exercise machine. Each recess may additionally be configured to release the pin of the locking arm when an upward, tensile force is applied to the locking arm, such as a force lifting the foot pad to adjust the position of the foot pad.

Accordingly, each foot pad may be positioned in the first position to facilitate exercising in a standing, erect position. Each foot pad may then be lifted by an operator and each locking arm may swing freely below each respective foot pad. The pin at the second end of each locking arm may then be positioned within a recess of the positioning rack to achieve a desired angle between the base of the foot pad and the foot support member. After the pin at the second end of each locking arm is positioned within a respective recess of the positioning racks, the exercise machine may be configured to facilitate exercising in a sitting, recumbent position.

In further embodiments, a locking mechanism may include a locking arm that is rotatably attached to a respective foot support member and each foot pad may include a positioning rack. A first end of each locking arm may be rotatably coupled to a foot pad by a hinge joint, and a second end of each locking arm may optionally include a pin. The positioning rack may include a plurality of recesses spaced along a length of the foot pad. Each recess may be sized and configured to receive the second end of the locking arm and maintain the position of the locking arm when a downward, compressive force is applied to the locking arm, such as a force applied to the foot pad by a person's foot when exercising on the exercise machine. Each recess may additionally be configured to release the second end of the locking arm when an upward, tensile force is applied to the locking arm, such as a force lifting the foot pad to adjust the position of the foot pad.

In additional embodiments, a locking mechanism may include a positioning rack that includes a plurality of apertures. A first end of each locking arm may be rotatably coupled to a foot pad by a hinge joint, and a second end of each locking arm may include a pin, which may be removable from an aperture located at the second end of the locking arm.

As shown, the positioning rack may include a plurality of apertures spaced along a length of the foot support member. Each aperture may be sized and configured similar to the aperture at the second end of the locking arm. The aperture of the locking arm may be aligned with an aperture of the plurality of the apertures of the positioning rack and the pin may be inserted through both the aperture of the locking arm and the aperture of the plurality of apertures of the positioning rack.

When the pin is inserted, the second end of the locking arm may be fixed relative to the positioning rack and may maintain the position of the locking arm and the foot pad relative to the foot support member. Accordingly, when a force is applied to the locking arm, such as a force applied to the foot pad by a person's foot when exercising on the exercise machine, the angle of the foot pad relative to the foot support member may be maintained. When the pin is removed from the aperture of the plurality of apertures of the positioning rack, and optionally removed from the aperture of the locking arm, the locking arm and foot pad may be free to move relative to the foot support member and the angle of the foot pad relative to the foot support member may be modified.

In additional embodiments, a locking mechanism may include a positioning rack that includes an elongated track or rail. A first end of each locking arm may be rotatably coupled to a foot pad by a hinge joint, and a second end of each locking arm may include a trolley, which may be slidably coupled to the track of the positioning rack. The trolley may be selectably lockable, such that the trolley and second end of the locking arm may be selectively fixed relative to the track and the foot support member.

For example, the elongated track may comprise an elongated opening and the trolley may comprise a shoulder bolt and nut, such as a wing nut. A shoulder of the shoulder bolt may be sized and positioned to move freely within the elongated opening when the wing nut on the shoulder bolt is relatively loose. When the wing nut is turned and tightened, the wing nut may be compressed against the positioning rack and may lock the shoulder bolt in place relative to the positioning rack.

Accordingly, when the trolley is locked, the second end of the locking arm may be fixed relative to the positioning rack and may maintain the position of the locking arm and the foot pad relative to the foot support member. When a force is applied to the locking arm, such as a force applied to the foot pad by a person's foot when exercising on the exercise machine, the angle of the foot pad relative to the foot support member may be maintained. When the trolley is unlocked, the trolley may be slidable along the track and the angle of the foot pad relative to the foot support member may be modified.

In yet further embodiments, a locking mechanism may include a locking arm with a plurality of apertures. A first end of the locking arm may be fixed to a foot pad, and the plurality of apertures may extend along a length of the locking arm. The foot support member may include an aperture that may be selectively aligned with each aperture of the plurality of apertures of the locking arm.

To lock the angular position of the foot pad relative to the foot support member, an aperture of the plurality of apertures of the locking arm may be aligned with the aperture of the foot support member and a pin may be inserted through both the aperture of the locking arm and the aperture of the foot support member. When the pin is inserted, the locking arm, and the foot pad, may be fixed relative to the foot support member. Accordingly, when a force is applied to the locking arm, such as a force applied to the foot pad by a person's foot when exercising on the exercise machine, the angle of the foot pad relative to the foot support member may be maintained. When the pin is removed from the aperture of the plurality of apertures of the locking arm and the aperture of the foot support member, the locking arm and foot pad may be free to move relative to the foot support member and the angle of the foot pad relative to the foot support member may be modified.

In yet additional embodiments, a locking mechanism may include a locking arm with a plurality of recesses. A first end of each locking arm may be rotatably coupled to a foot pad by a hinge joint, and the plurality of recesses may extend along a length of the locking arm. The foot support member may include a pin that may be selectively aligned with each recess of the plurality of recesses of the locking arm.

To lock the angular position of the foot pad relative to the foot support member, a recess of the plurality of recesses of the locking arm may be aligned with the pin of the foot support member. When the pin is inserted, the locking arm, and the foot pad, may be fixed relative to the foot support member. Accordingly, when a downward, compression force is applied to the locking arm, such as a force applied to the foot pad by a person's foot when exercising on the exercise machine, the angle of the foot pad relative to the foot support member may be maintained. Each recess may additionally be configured to release the pin of the foot support member when an upward, tensile force is applied to the locking arm, such as a force lifting the foot pad to adjust the angular position of the foot pad.

When positioned and locked in the first position, a base of each foot pad may be substantially parallel with a longitudinal axis of each respective foot support member. Locking each foot pad in the first position relative to each respective foot support member may facilitate the operation of the exercise machine by a user while in a standing position, with the user's hands positioned on the respective first and second handles of the first and second swing arms. Accordingly, the exercise machine may be operated similarly to an elliptical machine, simulating a walking or jogging motion, when the first and second foot pads are locked in the first position relative to the first and second foot support members.

When positioned and locked in a second position, the base of each of the first foot pad and the second foot pad may be positioned at an angle relative to a longitudinal axis of each respective foot support member. For example, the base of each foot pad may be positioned at an angle between about 20 degrees and about 70 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of each respective foot support member. For another example, the base of each foot pad may be positioned at an angle between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of each respective foot support member.

Locking each foot pad in the second position relative to the each respective foot support member may facilitate the operation of the exercise machine by a user while in a seated position, with the user's buttocks positioned on the seat, and optionally with the user's back positioned on a backrest of the seat and hands positioned on handles associated with the seat. Accordingly, the exercise machine may be operated similar to a stationary recumbent bicycle when the first and second foot pads are locked in the second position relative to the first and second foot support members.

To facilitate various sizes of users, the seat may be slidably mounted to the frame, so that the distance between the seat and the first and second foot pads may be adjustable. Also, the angle of the seat back and/or seat pan may be rotatable relative to the frame. Additionally, the console may be mounted in a position that facilitates observation of the console by a user when standing on the foot pads, and that also facilitates observation of the console by a user when seated on the seat.

The first and second foot pads may also be lockable in more than one second position relative to the first and second foot support members, so that the bases of the first and second foot pads may be positioned at an angle that is comfortable for a specific user when seated in the seat.

In view of the foregoing, an operator may operate the exercise machine in a either a standing position, or a seated position. To exercise in a standing position, an operator may position a first foot on the first foot pad of the exercise machine, and position a second foot on the second foot pad of the exercise machine, when the first and second foot pads are locked in the first position. The operator may then move each of the first foot and the second foot along an ovoid path on the first and second foot pads while standing and observing the console. Additionally, the operator may position a first hand on the first handle of the first swing arm, and position a second hand on the second handle of the second swing arm of the exercise machine. The operator may then move the first and second hands along an arcuate path on the handles of the first and second swing arms while moving each of the first foot and the second foot along the ovoid path on the first and second foot pads while standing.

The operator may then modify the exercise machine to exercise while seated. The operator may rotate each of the first and second foot pads from the first position to a second position. The operator may then utilize the locking mechanisms to lock the first and second foot pads in the second position. The operator may then sit on the seat and again may position the first foot on the first foot pad of the exercise machine, and position the second foot on the second foot pad of the exercise machine. The operator may then move each of the first foot and the second foot along the ovoid path on the first and second foot pads in the second position and while seated on the seat and may simultaneously observe the console. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An exercise apparatus comprising: a frame; a first foot support member comprising a central region mechanically constrained to follow an ovoid path relative to the frame; a second foot support member comprising a central region mechanically constrained to follow an ovoid path relative to the frame; a first foot pad coupled to the first foot support member, the first foot pad configured for selective rotation relative to the first foot support member; a second foot pad coupled to the second foot support member, the second foot pad configured for selective rotation relative to the second foot support member; a first locking mechanism positioned and configured to selectively lock the first foot pad in a first angular position relative to the first foot support member, and to selectively lock the first foot pad in at least one second angular position relative to the first foot support member; a second locking mechanism positioned and configured to selectively lock the second foot pad in a first angular position relative to the second foot support member, and to selectively lock the second foot pad in at least one second angular position relative to the second foot support member; wherein the exercise apparatus comprises a multi-position exercise machine.
 2. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a seat coupled to the frame.
 3. The exercise apparatus of claim 2, further comprising a drive assembly positioned within the frame, beneath the seat, and wherein a first end of the first foot support member is coupled to a first crank arm of the drive assembly and a first end of the second foot support member is coupled to a second crank arm of the drive assembly.
 4. The exercise apparatus of claim 3, further comprising: a first swing arm coupled to a first side of an upper portion of the frame by a hinge joint, a first end of the first swing arm comprising a handle and a second end of the first swing arm joined to a second end of the first foot support member by a hinge joint; a second swing arm coupled to a second side of the upper portion of the frame by a hinge joint, a first end of the second swing arm comprising a handle and a second end of the second swing arm joined to a second end of the second foot support member by a hinge joint.
 5. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein the exercise apparatus comprises a combination recumbent elliptical exercise machine and a standing elliptical exercise machine.
 6. The exercise apparatus of claim 2, further comprising a console positioned on an upper portion of the frame in a location where the console is observable by an operator while standing on the first and second foot pads and is also observable by an operator while seated on the seat.
 7. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a hinge joint coupling the first foot pad to the first foot support member and a hinge joint coupling the second foot pad to the second foot support member.
 8. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first locking mechanism comprises a first locking arm and the second locking mechanism comprises a second locking arm.
 9. The exercise apparatus of claim 7, wherein the first locking arm is coupled to the first foot pad via a hinge joint and the second locking arm is coupled to the second foot pad via a hinge joint.
 10. The exercise apparatus of claim 7, wherein the first locking arm is coupled to the first foot support member via a hinge joint and the second locking arm is coupled to the second foot support member via a hinge joint.
 11. The exercise apparatus of claim 7, wherein the first locking mechanism further comprises a first positioning rack and the second locking mechanism further comprises a second positioning rack.
 12. The exercise apparatus of claim 10, wherein each of the first and second positioning racks comprise a plurality of recesses, each recess of the plurality of recesses of the first positioning rack configured for selective alignment with a pin of the first locking arm, and each recess of the plurality of recesses of the second positioning rack configured for selective alignment with a pin of the second locking arm.
 13. The exercise apparatus of claim 10, wherein each of the first and second positioning racks comprise a plurality of apertures, each aperture of the plurality of apertures of the first positioning rack configured for selective alignment with an aperture of the first locking arm, and each aperture of the plurality of apertures of the second positioning rack configured for selective alignment with an aperture of the second locking arm.
 14. The exercise apparatus of claim 10, wherein the first positioning rack comprises a track and the first locking arm comprises a trolley slidably coupled to the track of the first positioning rack, and wherein the second positioning rack comprises a track and the second locking arm comprises a trolley slidably coupled to the track of the second positioning rack.
 15. The exercise apparatus of claim 7, wherein the first locking arm is coupled to the first foot pad and comprises a plurality of apertures, each aperture of the plurality of apertures positioned and configured for selective alignment with an aperture of the first foot support member, and wherein the second locking arm is coupled to the second foot pad and comprises a plurality of apertures, each aperture of the plurality of apertures positioned and configured for selective alignment with an aperture of the second foot support member.
 16. The exercise apparatus of claim 7, wherein the first locking arm is coupled to the first foot pad by a hinge joint and comprises a plurality of recesses, each recess of the plurality of recesses positioned and configured for selective alignment with a pin of the first foot support member, and wherein the second locking arm is coupled to the second foot pad by a hinge joint and comprises a plurality of recesses, each recess of the plurality of recesses positioned and configured for selective alignment with a pin of the second foot support member.
 17. A method of exercising, the method comprising: positioning a first foot on a first foot pad of an exercise machine; positioning a second foot on a second foot pad of the exercise machine; moving each of the first foot and the second foot along an ovoid path on the first and second foot pads while standing; rotating each of the first and second foot pads relative to respective first and second foot support members from a first position to a second position; sitting on a seat of the exercise machine; moving each of the first foot and the second foot along the ovoid path on the first and second foot pads in the second position and while seated on the seat.
 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: observing a console of the exercise machine while moving each of the first foot and the second foot along the ovoid path on the first and second foot pads while standing; observing the console of the exercise machine while moving each of the first foot and the second foot along the ovoid path on the first and second foot pads in the second position and while seated on the seat.
 19. The method of claim 17, further comprising: positioning a first hand on a handle of a first swing arm of the exercise machine; positioning a second hand on a handle of a second swing arm of the exercise machine; moving the first and second hands along an arcuate path on the handles of the first and second swing arms while moving each of the first foot and the second foot along the ovoid path on the first and second foot pads while standing.
 20. An exercise apparatus comprising: a frame; a seat coupled to the frame; a drive assembly comprising a first crank arm and a second crank arm positioned within the frame, beneath the seat; a first swing arm coupled to a first side of an upper portion of the frame by a hinge joint, a first end of the first swing arm comprising a handle; a second swing arm coupled to a second side of the upper portion of the frame by a hinge joint, a first end of the second swing arm comprising a handle; a console positioned on the upper portion of the frame, proximate to the handles of the first and second swing arms; a first foot support member having a first end coupled to the first crank arm of the drive assembly by a hinge joint and a second end coupled to a second end of the first swing arm by a hinge joint; a second foot support member having a first end coupled to the second crank arm of the drive assembly by a hinge joint and a second end coupled to a second end of the second swing arm by a hinge joint; a first foot pad coupled to the first foot support member by a hinge joint; a second foot pad coupled to the second foot support member by a hinge joint; a first locking mechanism positioned and configured to selectively lock the first foot pad in a first angular position relative to the first foot support member, and to selectively lock the first foot pad in at least one second angular position relative to the first foot support member; a second locking mechanism positioned and configured to selectively lock the second foot pad in a first angular position relative to the second foot support member, and to selectively lock the second foot pad in at least one second angular position relative to the second foot support member; wherein the exercise apparatus comprises a multi-position exercise machine including a recumbent elliptical exercise machine and a standing elliptical exercise machine. 